Heritier Lumumba ‘immersed’ in Collingwood premiership, expresses hopes for Magpies ‘cultural revolution’

Collingwood’s 2010 premiership star, Heritier Lumumba has celebrated the Pies flag on X in what could be a thawing of his estrangement from the club due to racism allegations.

Heritier Lumumba pictured on a recent return to Australia from his overseas home. Picture: Daniel Pockett/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

Collingwood’s 2010 premiership star Heritier Lumumba says he was deeply “immersed” in every aspect of the club’s flag triumph last Saturday, hoping it leads to an even greater “cultural revolution” for the Magpies.

Lumumba has been estranged from the club since his allegations of racism during his 10 seasons at Collingwood from 2005 to 2014 prompted the independent investigation that led to the Do Better Report.

But his social media post on X – formerly known as Twitter – expressing his joy in watching from afar as the Magpies defeated Brisbane Lions has given club officials hope it could one day lead to a rapprochement.

Heritier Lumumba pictured on a recent return to Australia from his overseas home. Picture: Daniel Pockett/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

He also said Bobby Hill’s Norm Smith Medal win had been “momentum” given the club’s past, while praising coach Craig McRae’s “brilliant leadership”.

“Recalling the magic of 2010, it’s prompted deep introspection,” Lumumba explained.

“In my first deep dive since retirement, I consumed EVERYTHING leading up to the game. I was deeply immersed again.

“Since 2021, Collingwood has pledged to undergo a metamorphosis, promising to confront & rectify cultural challenges. Fast forward to 2023, they’ve secured a premiership. On-field triumphs aren’t sole metrics of transformation, but they play a significant role in the narrative.

“As Collingwood’s influence grows post this victory, the question arises: how will they harness this new-found acclaim and power? Eagerly watching the club’s cultural evolution in the coming years. Floreat Pica.”

1/ 🏆 AFL Grand Final 2023: Recalling the magic of 2010, it's prompted deep introspection. In my first deep dive since retirement, I consumed EVERYTHING leading up to the game. I was deeply immersed again. #AFLGrandFinal2023#Collingwood

— Héritier Lumumba (@iamlumumba) October 4, 2023

The Magpies have reached out to Lumumba – who lives overseas – on several occasions in the past few years hoping to heal the rift – so far without success.

Earlier this year Collingwood made a public apology to Nicky Winmar and Gilbert McAdam for the racism they suffered at Victoria Park in 1993, which prompted Winmar to lift his jumper, point to his skin and say “I’m black and I’m proud”.

And the club has adopted all 18 recommendations of the Do Better Report.

These are Lumumba’s first public comments about his former club in the past 18 months, since the Magpies embarked on a pathway towards rectifying its failings of the past, which included welcoming back past players Leon Davis and Andrew Krakouer.

“Joy filled me (in) seeing 2010 teammates Scott Pendlebury & Steele Sidebottom win their second premiership,” Lumumba said.

Bobby Hill’s Norm Smith medal winning performance was ‘monumental’ according to Heritier Lumumba. Picture by David Caird

“Jamie Elliot’s success was equally heartwarming. Their unwavering dedication has always been clear.”

“Isaac Quaynor’s transition from fan to premiership player was a definite highlight. The importance of investing in the development of African talent can’t be emphasised enough and I hope the club continues down that path.

“The Father-Son connection, especially seeing the Daicos and Moore families, was another great highlight. It’s great to see them front and centre.

“The brilliant leadership of Craig McRae, who was the development coach during my time, was undeniable. He always had it in him to be a star head coach.

“Then there’s Bobby Hill! The gravity of him winning the North Smith medal, considering the club’s history, is absolutely monumental.”

Lumumba said he was thrilled for Collingwood’s supporters to experience premiership success for the first time in 13 years.

“I feel genuine happiness for Collingwood supporters,” he said.

“The sheer satisfaction this win must’ve brought is unimaginable. Their dedication to the club is unmatched, so this victory must be the sweetest.”